To add 3D shapes to your Paint 3D project, you typically start by creating a new project and then utilize the tools available within the application's interface, primarily the "3D shapes" menu.
Getting Started: Creating a New Project
As highlighted in the reference, the first step to adding objects like a character (such as the minion mentioned) is to create a new project. This provides the canvas and environment where you can begin building your 3D scene.
- Open Paint 3D.
- Select New to start a fresh project.
Once your new project is open, you can access the tools to add 3D elements.
Adding Basic 3D Shapes
Paint 3D offers a variety of pre-set 3D shapes that serve as building blocks for your creations.
Steps to Add Basic Shapes
- Navigate to the 3D shapes tab in the top menu.
- In the sidebar that appears, you will see different categories of 3D objects. The first section usually contains basic 3D shapes like cubes, spheres, cylinders, and cones.
- Click on the basic shape you wish to add (e.g., Cube, Sphere).
- Click and drag on your canvas to draw the shape. The size and initial orientation will be determined by your drag action.
- Once the shape is drawn, it will appear on the canvas with manipulation handles (rotate, scale, move) that allow you to adjust its position, size, and rotation in 3D space.
Here's a quick look at common basic shapes:
| Shape Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Cube | A basic six-sided box. |
| Sphere | A perfect ball shape. |
| Cylinder | A tube shape. |
| Cone | A pointed cone shape. |
| Pyramid | A four-sided pyramid shape. |
| Doughnut | A toroid or ring shape. |
You can select a shape after adding it to adjust its properties using the tools around it or in the sidebar.
Utilizing 3D Objects and 3D Doodles
Beyond basic shapes, the 3D shapes menu also includes other options:
- 3D Objects: This section often contains more complex pre-made models like a person, dog, cat, or fish that you can directly add and manipulate.
- 3D Doodle: This allows you to draw a shape in 2D that is then extruded into a 3D object. You can choose between a sharp edge doodle or a soft edge doodle for different effects.
Exploring the 3D Library
For even more options, Paint 3D connects to an online 3D library (sometimes referred to as Remix 3D, though integrated within the app) where you can browse and import a vast collection of community-created and curated 3D models directly into your project.
How to Access the 3D Library
- Go to the 3D shapes tab.
- Look for the 3D Library option in the sidebar.
- Clicking this opens the library interface, allowing you to search or browse models.
- Once you find a model you like, select it and click Place 3D model to add it to your canvas.
By combining basic shapes, 3D objects, doodles, and models from the library, you can create a wide variety of 3D scenes and objects within Paint 3D, starting from that initial new project canvas.
